Kanazawa Journey Through History and Culture Half-day Walking Tour
Overview
Discover the enchanting culture of Kanazawa, a historic gem with samurai heritage, stunning gardens, and local delights to explore.
Highlights
- Explore Omicho-Market with over 300 years of history and sample tasty flavours
- Enjoy a walk in Kenrokuen, one of the three most famous gardens
- Take a break with matcha and Japanese sweets at historical building in Higashi-Chaya districts
Kanazawa has a cultural richness that stands out on its own. Visitors often find Kanazawa’s unique culture enchanting, offering something different from both Tokyo and Kyoto.
During the Edo period, Kanazawa was known as "Kaga Hyakumangoku" and was one of Japan’s largest cities at the time. The Maeda family, who ruled the domain, were cautious of the Edo Shogunate and chose to invest their wealth not in military power but in the development of culture. This decision allowed Kanazawa to flourish as a cultural hub, preserving its artistic and historical heritage.
As you explore Kanazawa with a guide, you’ll discover the aesthetic sense of the samurai, preserved in its original form, throughout the city. Kanazawa was fortunate to escape air raids during the war, leaving its historical sites intact, offering a rare glimpse into the past. This tour includes essential spots such as Omicho Market, known as Kanazawa’s kitchen and beloved by locals, Kenrokuen Garden which took over a hundred years to complete and shows totally different beauty on each season and the Higashi Chaya District, which retains its historical charm from 200 years ago.
Additionally, you'll get to see hidden gems that only locals know about, such as beautiful hidden streets and a restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while viewing Japan’s oldest fountain. By spending half a day exploring the city with a local guide, you’ll gain a deep understanding of Kanazawa’s geography and history.
What's included
- Entrance fees
- Drinks
- Local guide
Meeting & pickup
In front of Oyama Shrine Main Torii Gate. The guide will be holding a red/orange sign saying "Magical Trip".
Additional info
Accessibility:
- The itinerary for this tour includes some locations that are not accessible by a wheelchair or baby stroller
Know in advance:
- Please note that there might be other participants. Out of respect to other guests and to ensure the best tour for everyone, the tour will start on time
- Please note that if you are late for more than 15 minutes than meeting time (10 mins before the tour starting time), you'll not be able to join the tour, get refund or reschedule
- If you're vegetarian, please be aware that lunch choice and amount is limited. Please, contact the local operator before the tour date for clarifications. Contact info found on the voucher after booking
- Please inform the local operator at least one day before the tour if you have any dietary requests or allergies to mention
- This tour can't accommodate guests who are vegan and gluten-free
- Requests made on the day of the tour can't be accommodated
- The tour might be cancelled in case of unsuitable weather for safety reasons
- Itinerary order is subject to change depending on traffic, weather, and operation. If any place is closed, there will be alternative location to visit
- All the entrance fees to Kenrokuen-garden and museums are included, as well as lunch
- As this is a walking tour, please make sure you wear shoes with which you feel comfortable walking long distance
Remember to bring:
- Please bring some cash if you need additional snacks and drinks
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 day before the experience starts for a full refund.
Questions
Have a question?
Our team is happy to help before you book — reach out any time.
